As the plane drops down into Faro, you catch a tantalising glimpse of them – the offshore islands of the Algarve. With their beaches, dunes, lagoons and seafood restaurants, the "Ilhas" are idyllic ... read more »

One day a gurgling waterfall surrounded by luxuriant oleanders,the next an endless sweep of golden sand. Countryside and beach co-exist beautifully here and you're absolutely spoilt for choice ... read more »

Like Tess in Freya North's novel "Secrets" I love Saltburn-by-the-Sea. Victorian architecture, cliff top walks, Italian gardens that meander down to the beach, a pier, cliff lift- what more do I need?... read more »

Odeceixe, on the border of the Algarve and the Alentejo, has a glorious beach and the cheapest accommodation I've seen in a long time. Just make sure you get that beach trip right...unlike me! ... read more »